While it would have only worked with free, over-the-air TV, an advantage would have been additional storage plus plentiful streaming options.

While most boxes restrict playback to the device itself, the Xbox DVR would have enabled over-the-air TV recordings to be streamed to Windows 10 devices and the SmartGlass app for iOS and Android.

Console owners would have also had the luxury of scheduling recordings via the apps as well as the ability to save recordings to an external hard-drive.

The dumping of the project is a further sign that Microsoft is abandoning the plans to make the Xbox One the all-in-one living room media device we were originally pitched.Read also: E3 3016: What we want to see

Now the focus seems to be on gamers and, given the company looks set to unleash a streaming box that would allow Remote Play in another room, we’re likely to see the trend continue at E2 2016 next week

In the full statement, Microsoft said (via The Verge): “After careful consideration, we’ve decided to put development of DVR for Over-the-Air TV on hold to focus our attention on launching new, higher fan-requested gaming experiences across Xbox One and Windows 10. We’re always listening to fan feedback and we look forward to bringing more requested experiences on Xbox One, Windows 10 and Xbox Live this year.”